Prescription drug abuse & safety
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially called prescription drug abuse an epidemic. Prescription drug abuse is using medication in a way not intended by your doctor. While it is okay to take medication as your doctor prescribes, misusing any drug is dangerous.
Facts about prescription drug abuse
- People who abuse medication may steal from a friend or relative.
- Having prescription pain medications in your home increases your risk for theft.
How to protect yourself from abuse
- Take medication only as directed by your doctor.
- Medications at risk for abuse should be locked up or kept out of sight. Examples of these medications include pain medications, sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medications.
- Keep medication in the original container with the label attached.
- Dispose of all unused and expired medications appropriately. Your pharmacist can tell you how.
For more information on this and other types of healthcare fraud, waste and abuse, click here.

In this issue
- Renew your Medicaid eligibility
- Virtual care: Get care when you need it
- Annual care: Complete your HRA and a checkup
- ER, urgent care, PCP: Where to turn when you need care
- Surprising facts about e-cigarettes
- Free preventive care
- New programs make prenatal care easier
- Prescription drug abuse & safety
- Need a ride? We can help.
- Family planning options + focus on chlamydia
- Get rewarded for a lead poisoning screening
- Important health reminders
- Understanding your plan
- Contact Customer Service & keep us updated